The Micro Four Thirds lens standard has given rise to some decent mini-DSLR-style cameras, yet its true, unfulfilled potential was always said to lay with compact, Rangefinder type hardware. The E-P1 is Olympus’s modern take on its classic Pen SLR

Although specs, price and possible date of delivery are yet to be released, the photos released do provide a thrilling insight into the potential of the camera. It’s outfitted with a 17mm f2.8 prime lens, and looks to be about the size of a mid-to-large-sized point-and-shoot. Olympus is expected announcement on June 15th  of a retro Micro Four Thirds camera, due for release in July, presumably, the E-P1 is the camera in question.

Photography blogs are buzzing with speculation about all facets of this (presumably) upcoming camera, but it’s the concept, rather than the specific execution, that’s exciting: Micro Four Thirds sensors can nearly match their APS-C counterparts in quality, and the ever-expanding catalog of compatible glass ensures DSLR-like versatility for the emerging standard. Now, the format may well be getting its first body that may well appeal to both enthusiasts and consumers.

A couple of things that can be gleaned from the image include:
1. An hotshoe flash
2. Movie mode
3. Art scenes mode (presumably, like the E-450 and E-620)
4. A 17mm f/2.8 pancake lens
The screenshot has provoked frantic discussion amongst blogs and Olympus’announcement is eagerly awaited, as the wait for a longstanding, reliable micro-four-thirds continues.

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